About illegal dumping and dumpers

The EPA has conducted research with government,
industry and the community to find out what motivates businesses and the
community to illegally dump and how that behaviour can be changed. Results will
inform new education and compliance strategies for improving knowledge, and changing
attitudes and behaviours.

What is illegal dumping?

Illegal dumping is the disposal of waste larger than litter on land or
in water without the correct approvals (an environment protection licence or
planning approvals).

Illegal dumping can include

placing
unwanted household items on the footpath when there is no council collection

dumping
rubbish or green waste in the bush or on the side of a road

businesses
or contractors who are paid to correctly dispose of commercial waste but
instead dump it on land without proper approvals

EPA research into illegal dumping in NSW

The EPA has published state-wide research on what motivates businesses and the community to illegally dump and how to change that behaviour. The research was conducted with government, industry and community stakeholders and provides a state-wide benchmark for monitoring changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviours.